What You Need to Know Before a Visit from ICE

What You Need to Know Before a Visit from ICE

Posted By
Dean Kantaras

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are at your door.
They may be searching for you, someone you live with, a coworker, or they
may have the wrong place. Regardless of the situation, it’s important
that you are aware of your rights.
This is what you need to know before a visit from ICE:

If agents knock on the door, keep it closed and ask them what they are
there for. If you open the door, that does not give ICE permission to
walk inside, but they might do it anyways.

If you do not speak the same language as the ICE agent, ask for an interpreter.
One should be provided to you.

If ICE wants to enter your residence or work, ask them if they have a warrant
signed by a judge. If the “warrant” is an order signed by ICE (example), it is not enough for entry into the premises. Only a warrant signed
by a judge (example) can be used to legally enter.

If ICE does not have a warrant, politely state,
“I do not consent to your entry” and keep the door closed. If they force their way in, do not resist. Say,
“I do not consent to your entry. I am exercising my right to remain
silent. I wish to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.” Record the encounter with a cellphone if possible.

If ICE does have a warrant, ask them to slide it under the door or hand
it to you. Read the warrant and make sure it applies to you or a person
in the premises.

If ICE’s warrant is credible, allow them inside. Do not lie or show
false documents and ask for a lawyer before signing any papers or agreeing
to anything further.